Ōhashidō x inktraveler
Stock Ohashido
The Ōhashidō x inktraveler collaboration brings to you a curated selection of truly unique, artisan-made fountain pens, all handcrafted by the renowned Ōhashidō workshop. If you are interested in acquiring one of these exceptional writing instruments, you can inquire about availability by emailing inktraveler@inktraveler.com. Our stock consists of one-of-a-kind pieces that embody centuries-old Japanese craftsmanship combined with contemporary design aesthetics.
Each pen in this collection is meticulously created using a foot-operated rokuro lathe—an age-old method employed by master artisans in Japan. The process begins with antique ebonite sourced from the original company warehouses, material that was carefully acquired by Eichi Uehara, the father of Yuuichisan, who today represents the Uehara family’s storied legacy in pen-making since 1912. This ebonite, once the premier material in early fountain pen production, was renowned for its rich, deep hues and remarkable durability. By utilizing these historic ebonite blocks, Ōhashidō artisans ensure that each pen carries with it a tangible link to the golden era of Japanese pen manufacturing.
Price points within the Ōhashidō x inktraveler collection vary significantly, reflecting both the materials and the intricate labor required to produce each piece. At the higher end are the four-season-themed Urushi lacquer series known as “The Four Seasons of Sato,” a set of five pens hand-finished by the acclaimed Urushi master Tateo Sato of Sendai. Each of these lacquered pens features multilayered Urushi coatings, painstakingly applied and cured by hand, resulting in a lustrous, mirror-like finish that both protects the underlying ebonite and creates a visual narrative of seasonal transitions. These Urushi-coated pieces are among the most sought-after, owing to the time-intensive process and the scarcity of skilled lacquer artisans.
For collectors who prefer the natural texture and appearance of ebonite without additional lacquer, Ōhashidō offers a range of pens crafted from pure antique ebonite. These models come in various finishes—ranging from smooth, polished surfaces to matte, softly textured exteriors—and are available in multiple colors characteristic of vintage ebonite rods. Each pen also features a nib specially commissioned for Ōhashidō by Sailor: the 21K gold nib, matching the size of Sailor’s 1911 Large series, for those desiring a broader, more expressive line; and the 14K gold nib, comparable to the Professional Gear Slim or Sapporo models, for users seeking a finer, precise writing experience. These nib options further influence price, as larger gold content and more complex nib geometry require additional skilled labor during the manufacturing and tuning phases.
It is important to understand that these pens are not produced using modern digital lathes or CNC machines. Instead, the entirely manual crafting process results in subtle variations—such as slight shifts in color tone and texture across grip sections—that highlight the genuine artistry involved. While you may not achieve the perfectly uniform polish of machine-finished pens, each piece’s distinctive patina and minor color gradations contribute to a sense of individuality and character that is increasingly rare in today’s mass-produced market. Collectors who appreciate the nuances of handcraftsmanship will value these idiosyncrasies, as they signify a pen’s authentic, handmade origin.
Because most Ōhashidō pens in our inventory are strictly one-of-a-kind—often representing the final remnants of a particular ebonite batch or a unique Urushi lacquer scheme—all reservations and purchases are handled on a strict first-come, first-served basis. We kindly ask for your understanding if a pen is no longer available once you inquire. Should you wish to explore the full range of our artisan stock, please email us at inktraveler@inktraveler.com. Due to the high-resolution images and detailed documentation involved, we will promptly supply you with a secure download link to access the digital catalog.
By choosing an Ōhashidō x inktraveler fountain pen, you are not merely acquiring a writing instrument—you are embracing a living tradition. Each pen is a testament to over a century of Japanese pen-making heritage, blending antique ebonite material with modern functionality and premium nib craftsmanship. We invite you to experience these rare, handcrafted treasures for yourself. Should you have any questions or wish to reserve a piece, please do not hesitate to contact us. Thank you for supporting the continuation of this distinguished artisanal legacy.
